Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Summer law program for undergraduates

Interesting opportunity:

The 18th Summer for Undergraduates Program is scheduled for May 18-June 12, 2009.

Overview

The Summer for Undergraduates Program at Florida State Law is the largest of its kind and has become a model for other law schools nationally. Sixty undergraduate college students will be chosen from the applicant pool to participate in the four-week long program. During those four weeks, we focus on three main components:

* Classroom Experience — Daily classes are taught by law school professors and writing instructors. Lectures simulate first-year law classes and familiarize students with the functions of the American legal system. Writing workshops help students to develop their writing and communication skills.
* Law School Admissions Process — Students are given the opportunity to talk to the admissions staff and committee regarding the important aspects of the law school application process. This includes practical workshops on completing the application, writing personal statements, LSAT exam preparation, writing resume and cover letters, financing law school and individualized career planning.
* Careers in the Law — While the program is academic in nature, there are a number of exciting and enjoyable activities that take place outside of the classroom, such as: visits to the Florida Supreme Court and local law firms, moot court oral arguments, and visits from prominent attorneys in a variety of practice areas.

Eligibility

College students enrolled at two-and four-year institutions, in all majors and from all backgrounds, are invited to apply following their freshman year. We particularly welcome students from groups historically underrepresented in the legal profession. Because one purpose of the program is to help students direct their remaining time in college to best prepare for law school, freshmen, sophomores and juniors are given preference in the admissions process. Students who will have earned their degree prior to the start of the program will not be eligible for admission.

Program Costs

There is no tuition or room and board charge for this program. Florida State Law provides room and board in residence-hall accommodations, course materials and a $500 stipend to all participants. Students are responsible for their travel expenses to and from Tallahassee.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted after October 1, 2008 and must be postmarked by Friday, March 27, 2009. In order to apply, students must complete and sign the two-page application for admission. Applicants are also required to submit a resume, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement and a current official transcript. Each application is carefully reviewed in its entirety by the program's admissions committee.

For more information about the 2009 Summer for Undergraduates Program, please contact:

Florida State Law
Office of Student Affairs
425 West Jefferson Street, Room 206
Tallahassee, FL 32306-1601
850.644.7338; Fax: 850.644.4358
E-mail: saffairs@law.fsu.edu